Switching a Number from WhatsApp Cloud API to Personal WhatsApp App

Step 1: Delete the Number from WhatsApp Cloud API

1. Go to Meta Business Manager.
2. In the left sidebar, click on WhatsApp Manager.

1. Scroll to the Phone Numbers section.

4 . Find your number and click the trash icon next to it.

1. Confirm the deletion.

⚠️ Important: Ensure no apps or integrations use the number before deleting it.

Step 2: Wait for Deactivation

1. After deletion, it might take up to 1 hour for the number to be fully released from Meta’s backend.
2. If you get a message like “temporarily unavailable” when trying to register, it’s likely still in the release process.
3. Just wait and try again after some time

Step 3: Register on the WhatsApp Personal App

1. Open the WhatsApp app (mobile or desktop).
2. Enter your phone number.
3. Request and enter the verification code.
4. Complete the setup as usual.

? Note:

1. Removing a number from the Whatsapp Cloud API is now reversible – you can re-add it later.
2. However, all data, including messages, contacts, and media, will be permanently lost.

If you want to switch your number from WhatsApp and to WhatsApp Cloud API:

You must first delete your WhatsApp account from the mobile app:

1. Open WhatsApp Messenger or WhatsApp Business on your Android or iPhone.
2. Go to Settings > Account.
3. Tap Delete my account.
4. Messages sent to this phone number will be queued in the meantime.
5. Follow the instructions to complete account deletion.
   • It may take up to 3 minutes for the number to disconnect. {For detailed instructions, you can refer to Meta’s official documentation on Migrate App Phone Number to Business Platform.}

? Now, follow this YouTube Tutorial to continue the process: ? YouTube Tutorial – Switch to Cloud API

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Originally posted by Neha Bhatia on 2025-04-05 (forum thread #28197).